Technology Support for Students

How I Can Help with Technical Issues

Unfortunately, not too much. I'm a geologist 🤷🏻‍♂️ - I know rocks and volcanoes and rivers but struggle with technology challenges like many of you. Fortunately, there are resources that should be helpful.

Basic Computer Requirements

Having regular access to a computer with a reliable Internet connection is required. You will need a word processing program capable of saving word formats such as .doc, .docx, or .pdf. If you need a reliable computer check out the Cerritos College laptop loaner program.
Check out the technical requirements for your computer and browser in order to maximize Canvas functionality: Test your computer's readiness
It is essential to have an active email account that you check regularly. If you don't have an email address, you can get a free email account from Google, Yahoo, or another provider.
Canvas should be used on the current version of Chrome*, Firefox, Edge, or Safari. *Chrome tends to work best.

New to Online?

If you are new to online, this "Getting Tech Ready" video can help you prepare for the term ahead.

Canvas Help

If you're experiencing difficulty with Canvas, click the Help icon in your account navigation bar (at the very left of the Canvas page). From there you can search the Canvas Guides or contact the Helpline.

Additional Canvas Support

Free Apps for Word, PowerPoint, and PDF Files

Libre Office and Apache OpenOffice are two similar resources that will provide you with a word processing program and will permit you to open Word documents and PowerPoint files.

Download Adobe Acrobat reader for any PDF files.

How to view a presentation without PowerPoint.

Note- You can also buy very low-cost software and hardware through College Buys. Check out the website to find access to such resources as low-cost laptops, charge cables, and all types of programs. This is brought to you by the Foundation for California Community Colleges.

Troubleshooting

Many computer issues can be resolved by following the steps below.

Completely shut down your computer and reboot.
Clear the cache in your browser.

How to clear cache on a Mac
How to clear cache on a PC

Try allowing pop-ups from Canvas.
Try using another computer and/or browser to see if you have similar problems.

If using a mobile device, then try again using a computer.
If using public wifi, then try again using a better Internet connection